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The takeover tilt will be probed by the CMA's investigation group, including chairman Anne Lambert and panel members Sarah Chambers, John Krumins and Tim Tutton.

Ms Lambert said: "We have experience investigating different issues in a wide range of sectors, from publishing to hospitals and even defence.

"We will use that same evidence-based approach to thoroughly and impartially investigate the proposed takeover of Sky Plc by 21st Century Fox on the public interest grounds of media plurality and a genuine commitment to broadcasting standards.

"Once the investigation is complete we will report back to Karen Bradley for her to make a final decision."

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Ms Bradley told MPs last week that she was likely to refer the deal to the CMA for a full-blown investigation.

The CMA has around six months to investigate the merger and provide Ms Bradley with advice, after which she must then come to a final decision on whether or not the merger can proceed, including any conditions that will apply in order to do so.

The watchdog said it would publish its timetable of the investigation in the near future.